Getting Strong For Capoeira

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Title: Getting Strong For Capoeira

Word Count: 336

Author: Lynn VanDyke

Email: ArticlesByLynn@...

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Getting Strong For Capoeira

Copyright 2005 strength-training-woman.com

Capoeira is all the buzz these days. I turned on the TV

the other night to see a Capoeiristas (one that enjoys this

sport/game) having a full makeover. On top of that, I went

to a Cirque De Soleil show a few months back, and guess

what they had plenty of? You guessed it. Capoeiristas

Capoeira is a martial arts form that originated in Brazil

over 500 years ago. Today it is also thought of as an

exercise or a game. Usually two people will enter in a

circle and begin to do sweeps, kicks, and other martial art

moves.

As a personal trainer, I am in and out of many health

clubs. I began seeing Capoeira as the newest buzz in

fitness classes. It is quickly becoming the new trend for

health clubs. But I really started learning about Capoeira

when a client of mine asked about ways she could strengthen

her body to perform better. To be honest, I was at a

complete loss of words. I had no clue what she was talking

about.

I did some research on this exciting game/sport and

developed a functional program for her to use. The

Capoeirista had been working out using traditional machines

and exercises. After my research I knew she really had to

move in a different direction. No pun intended.

We started functional training. That means doing moves and

exercises that are consistent with everyday tasks: lifting,

jumping, pulling and pushing. We introduced exercises like

the squat, lunges, push-ups, explosive lunges and

dead-lifts. Each exercise focused on strengthening the

muscles for quick, no-time-to-think movements.

After a few months of training, this Capoeirista was ready

to get back into the circle. Her body was functionally

stronger, and it showed in her kicks, leaps, and jumps.

If you enjoy Capoeira or another martial arts form,

consider functional exercise and strength training as

friends. Building a body for your specific sport or

interest will ensure many years of healthy competition.

About the Author:

Lynn VanDyke is the owner of

http://www.strength-training-woman.com . She is a

certified personal trainer, yoga instructor and sport

nutritionist. Her No Limits ezine is quickly becoming a

must-read for fitness enthusiasts.